Pool Safely Steps That Save Lives for Parents

No matter how safe you already are around pools and spas, adding as many proven safety measures as possible is the best system - because you can never know which one might save your child's life. Until it does. This Pool Safely activity was created to help parents and kids learn more simple safety steps to be safe and have fun.

The following is a complete list of the steps shown in the activity:

Don't play with pool equipment.

Young children should never swim without a lifeguard plus their parent or guardian in the pool close by. There must be an adult to supervise the kids in the pool.

Stay clear of drain covers in pools and spas. Never let children play with drain covers. If the drain looks loose or is missing, don't let your children swim at all and notify the pool manager.

Tell your kids to never pretend to be in trouble in the pool.

Children should walk, not run while on the pool deck. Children can easily slip and fall into the water or injure themselves if they are running around the pool.

Children should not go into a pool that is not open.

Children should not hang on their friends or push anyone under water.

Don't let children dive or jump at the shallow end of the pool or near the entry stairs.

Pool covers should be completely removed before allowing your children to enter the pool or spa.

Don't let children stand on flotation devices.

Never prop open or leave open a gate to the pool.

Children shouldn't play near ladders, diving boards or slides.

If children cannot swim, they must wear only U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation devices.